Peddlers & Solicitors Licenses

Per Ordinance Chapter 721, individuals or groups wishing to engage in peddling or funds solicitation must obtain a license. 

A "Peddler" is any person who carries with him for the purpose of sale at retail and immediate or future delivery, goods, wares, food or merchandise, or any person who in person as a principal or agent canvasses, sells, or otherwise obtains orders or commitments for the sale, repair or exchange of goods, wares, food or merchandise, or services.

A "Solicitor" is any person who obtains or seeks to obtain funds for any cause whatsoever by means of canvassing from place to place.

If you aren't sure if you qualify as a peddler or solicitor, please contact the Police Department at 440-871-1234 for guidance.

Getting a Permit

To apply for a permit, complete the Peddler and Solicitor License Application (PDF).

  • Each individual who will be soliciting must obtain a license. 
  • Incorporated businesses must furnish a copy of their State of Ohio Certificate of Good Standing.
  • If you do not have an Ohio driver’s license or ID card, you must submit a color, 3 by 3-inch head and shoulders photo of yourself when you submit the application.
  • Non-profit agencies with a 501(C)(3) designation do not require a permit. However, they are required to provide their entity’s IRS determination letter. Examples are Girls Scouts and church organizations.

Payment

Payment is required at the time of submitting a solicitor application. Each application must include a $25 fee or a group may submit a check or cash for the group of applications at $25 per application. The charge for renewal of a solicitor’s license is $15 per license. 

Soliciting Requirements

Once your application has been reviewed and record checks completed, you will be contacted to pick up your permit at the Police Station. You must abide by Chapter 721 of the Codified Ordinances, including avoiding residents with "No Solicitation" stickers posted and the hours of solicitation from 9 am to 8 pm or sunset, whichever is earlier, Monday through Saturday.

No soliciting on Sunday or any legal state or federal holiday. No soliciting is permitted at homes on the Do Not Knock registry or homes with a "No peddlers, solicitors or canvassers allowed" sticker. The registry list is updated every two weeks and posted on the website. It is the responsibility of the Solicitor/Peddler to have a current printed list with them when out soliciting.

All licenses expire on December 31st of the calendar year in which it was acquired, regardless of the date such license is issued.